Safely Caring For Loved Ones

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

According to the CDC most people who get sick with COVID-19 will have only mild illness and may decide to recover at home. Care at home can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help protect people who are at risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19.

Here are steps to follow to help car for your loved ones and to remain safe. 

Provide symptom treatment

• Make sure the sick person drinks a lot of fluids to stay hydrated and rests at home.
• Over-the-counter medicines may help with symptoms.
• For most people, symptoms last a few days and get better after a week.

Prevent the spread of germs when caring for someone who is sick

• Have the person stay in one room, away from other people, including yourself, as much as possible.
• If possible, have them use a separate bathroom.
• Avoid sharing personal household items, like dishes, towels, and bedding
• Have them wear a cloth face covering (that covers their nose and mouth) when they are around people, including you.
• It the sick person can’t wear a cloth face covering, you should wear one while in the same room with them.
• If the sick person needs to be around others (within the home, in a vehicle, or doctor’s office), they should wear a cloth face covering that covers their mouth and nose.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after interacting with the sick person. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Every day, clean all surfaces that are touched often, like counters, tabletops, and doorknobs
• Use household cleaning sprays or wipes according to the label instructions.
• Wash laundry thoroughly.
• If laundry is soiled, wear disposable gloves and keep the soiled items away from your body while laundering. Wash your hands immediately after removing gloves.
• Avoid having any unnecessary visitors.
• For any additional questions about their care, contact their healthcare provider or state or local health department.

For more information on COVID-19 and how best to improve your mental wellbeing during these uncertain times visit the Centers for Disease Control  website. 

All of us here at SERVPRO of Newton / Wellesley want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!